Max 5 dogs will join the hikes with one Hike Leader.

With more Hike Leaders, we may add more dogs per hike.

To maximize enjoyment and energy output of your dog, we prefer to hike off leash BUT owners can choose whether their dog should be kept on-leash or can go off-leash.

All dogs must pass the assessment hike which will include recall for off-leash dogs.

There are two options:

1 hour hike: with transport, your dog will be gone ~2 hours

3 hour hike: with transport, your dog will be gone 4-5 hours

Every dog must take an assessment hike to demonstrate recall (in addition to making sure they are not aggressive).

All dogs will be kept within eyesight and recalled if they get too far.

If one dog wanders too far and isn't coming when called, all other dogs will be put on leash until we locate the dog and regroup.

Yes, this is our preference! When you book, you'll provide your address and any instructions for pick-up including keypads or lockbox combinations if you won't be home.

If you prefer to drop your dog off, please let us know during the booking process.

We take dogs on hikes in the area around Missoula, MT.

We can pick up and drop off in surrounding communities such as Lolo, East Missoula, Bonner, etc. Send us a message to see if we can accommodate your location!

I take every precaution to prevent emergencies, but in case of an emergency, I am trained in animal first aid and CPR. We will immediately contact you and/or your emergency contact, as well as take your dog to their vet or the emergency vet. Our insurance helps cover vet bills and related expenses.

I carry bear spray and a Doggy First Aid kit on every hike.

I conduct an assessment hike with each dog to gauge their temperament and recall. Dogs joining pack hikes will also join a Meet and Greet to test compatibility with the group before allowing them to join a hike.

However, in the rare case that a dog is not getting along with the others, I will separate them from the group and they won't be able to rejoin Dog Vader hikes until they demonstrate improved behavior.

I provide water, treats, and poop bags.

I prefer dogs wear a harness especially because they will be buckled in the car. If your dog doesn't have a harness, it's okay. Please make sure they wear a collar.

ID tags with the dog's name and, most importantly, your contact information.

As long as the dog doesn't have behavioral issues or major health concerns, we welcome dogs with special needs. We will work with you to make sure their needs are met. Just let us know ahead of time so we can plan accordingly.

Dog Vader allows cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled hike. Any cancellations made after that may be subject to a cancellation fee.

Dog Vader requires all dogs to first take a Solo Hike as an assessment. We are looking for recall as well as making sure that your dog is not aggressive towards other dogs or people.

If you are hoping to send multiple dogs from one family, please complete a Pod Hike request instead - we will take all of your dogs on an assessment hike together!